Life as an Art Student
In college, there is a wide variety of schools within a single university. Each has its own majors, stereotypes, challenges, traditions, and norms.
However, we rarely hear about the unique quirks woven deep within each school. As a sophomore art student, I want to move beyond the stereotypes of art school and share a few unique qualities I’ve learned about my school.
Long Classes and Critiques
The first thing I noticed about the art school was how long the classes are. Typically, a studio art class at my university is three hours long. This time is used for working on projects in the studio, collaborating with classmates, observing art demonstrations, and much more.
Another common practice in the art school is holding class critiques. These are days when we present our projects to the class and explain the process, any challenges, the meaning of the work, and other details. In return, we receive feedback from peers and professors that helps refine our techniques, strategies, and artistic presentation skills.
A Living Studio
In the art community, displaying artwork is just as important as the process of creating it. It is very common to see flyers for student-run gallery shows all over the walls. There are gallery rooms located throughout the building that are open for students to display their work for a few weeks at a time.
It is inspiring to see these exhibitions while walking to class. Another thing you commonly see around my art school, in particular, is graffiti. Although it’s not typically legal to vandalize a building, art students are encouraged to use the entire building as a studio.
Students are usually allowed to work on projects around the building during or outside of class. Marks and messes left from past projects in the hallways are turned into artwork through an unspoken collaboration. This gives students the freedom to create through improvisation and provides a safe space to express themselves, no matter how messy it gets.
Curriculum and Creative Clutter
As an art student, I follow a curriculum designed to expose me to multiple art mediums and different ways of creating. For example, everyone has to take the fundamental courses in each art medium within the school. This allows students to build a portfolio of artwork needed for the midway review system, known as the Block Review at my school.
What happens to all those random art supplies and projects students collect over time that they may never use again? My school has lengthened the life cycle of these items through pop-up events where students can sell old projects and supplies. They can also donate scrap materials and tools to the art center.
The Big Picture
Long classes, critiques, and creative messes are just a few of the qualities that define life in art school. It’s more than just learning to draw or paint; it’s about being immersed in the world of art.
This perspective has taught me to find creativity in the everyday, practice creative problem-solving, and constantly refine my techniques. Ultimately, art school is a space that encourages students to make their mark, and I can’t wait to see what else it has to offer.
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